Dying Light 2 Not Connecting to Server Error PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, and Switch: If you’re encountering the dreaded “Unable to connect to server”, “Server not reachable”, “Network Disconnected” or similar errors while trying to play Dying Light 2: Stay Human (DL2) — whether on PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox One/Series, or Nintendo Switch — you’re in the right place.
This issue can happen for many reasons: server outages, network mis-configurations, NAT and firewall issues, game version mismatch, or client/launcher problems. Thankfully, most cases can be solved with a methodical approach. Let’s dive in.
1. Why does this “Not Connecting to Server” error happen?
Here are the major root-causes of the connectivity error in DL2:
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Server-side issues / maintenance / outages: If the game’s online services are down, you’ll naturally be unable to connect. The developer Techland has acknowledged co-op and connection issues in the past. Gamepur+2Dying Light 2+2
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Unstable or insufficient network connection: Slow/unstable internet, high ping, packet loss, WiFi interference can prevent successful server connection. The Droid Guy+1
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Firewall/antivirus or system settings blocking connection: On PC, the game may be prevented from communicating with servers due to blocked ports, strict NAT, disabled UPnP, or antivirus interference. MR.LEARNING WAY+1
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Game client version mismatch / corrupted files: If your copy of DL2 is outdated or some game files are corrupted, the server may reject your connection. hypernia.com+1
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Platform-specific/configuration issues: On consoles there might be NAT type problems, or you might not have unlocked online features (e.g., co-op is unlocked only after a certain quest) per Techland’s support article. Dying Light 2
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Use of VPNs, proxies or poor routing: Sometimes a VPN may interfere with or block the game’s connection to its backend servers. Howtoedge+1
Because so many variables are at play, the solution involves checking from server status all the way down to your local network/settings.
2. Step-by-Step Fixes to Try
2.1 Check the game server / online services
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First: verify whether DL2’s online services are operational. Visit Techland’s official Twitter account or their support site to see if they are reporting any server downtime or maintenance. KrispiTech+1
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If servers are down, you might just need to wait until they’re back up.
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If they are up but still can’t connect, continue with the steps below.
2.2 Restart your device & network gear
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Power off your PC/console fully, unplug the router/modem for ~30–60 seconds, then plug back in and turn everything on. This often clears temporary network glitches. hypernia.com+1
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After rebooting, attempt to launch DL2 and connect.
2.3 Verify your internet connection
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Run an online speed test and check ping, download/upload speeds. If your internet is unstable or too slow, multiplayer may fail. The Droid Guy+1
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Ideally use a wired (Ethernet) connection instead of WiFi; WiFi may introduce packet loss or interference. The Droid Guy
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Disconnect other devices or heavy usage (streaming, downloads, torrents) that might be hogging bandwidth.
2.4 Update your game and system
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On PC: Make sure your Steam or Epic Games Launcher is updated. Then update DL2. hypernia.com+1
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On consoles: Check for software updates (PS4/PS5, Xbox, Switch) and ensure the game patch is installed. A version mismatch can block server connections.
2.5 Verify game files (PC)
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On Steam: Library → Right-click DL2 → Properties → Local Files → “Verify integrity of game files”.
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On Epic: Library → Three-dots next to DL2 → Manage → Verify.
This repair step can fix corrupted files preventing online connectivity. Xbox & Play Games+1
2.6 Configure firewall/NAT/router settings
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On PC: Add DL2 to the exceptions list in Windows Defender Firewall or your third-party antivirus. The Droid Guy+1
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On your router:
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Enable UPnP (Universal Plug & Play).
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If NAT type is “Strict” or “Moderate”, aim for an “Open” NAT to improve connectivity.
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Ensure no ports are blocked for the game (check Techland documentation for required ports).
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If using a VPN or proxy, try disabling it temporarily — sometimes it causes connectivity issues. MR.LEARNING WAY+1
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2.7 Platform-specific settings & co-op unlock requirement
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On PC/Console: Ensure you’ve progressed far enough in the story for co-op or multiplayer functionality. Techland’s support article says co-op unlocks after the prologue/“Markers of Plague” quest. Dying Light 2
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On consoles: Check your online account status (PSN, Xbox Live, Nintendo Online). Make sure they are working and that network features are enabled.
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On all platforms: Set the game’s Online Options to “Public” and disable any “Call for Help” restrictions or filters that may hide available sessions. For example, one article suggests: Options → Online Options → “Game Type” = Public. eXputer.com
2.8 Clear any residual network/config cache (Console & PC)
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On console: After powering off, you may also rebuild database (PS4/PS5) or clear cache (Xbox) to remove corrupted local session data.
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On PC: You can flush DNS (
ipconfig /flushdns) and reset network stack (netsh int ip reset,netsh winsock reset) in Command Prompt, then restart. Some user-shared fix videos recommend this. YouTube
2.9 Reinstall the game (last resort)
If none of the above fix the issue, uninstall DL2 (keeping your save data if you prefer), then reinstall from scratch. This often clears deep-seated configuration or file corruption problems that prevent server connection.
Make sure to also delete any mod files (PC) that might interfere with online connectivity.
3. Platform-Specific Considerations
PC (Windows via Steam/Epic)
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Use Ethernet instead of WiFi when possible.
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Run as Administrator: Right-click game → Properties → Compatibility → “Run this program as administrator”. Some network access issues are permission-related. MR.LEARNING WAY
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If you use VPNs or game-boosters, disable them temporarily and test.
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Check that your default browser is functional (some authentication pop-ups rely on browser interaction) — one user found switching default browser solved “not connected to online services” issue. Reddit
PS4 / PS5
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Settings → Network → Test Internet Connection to check PSN status.
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Turn off Rest Mode and fully reboot the console to clear cache.
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Go to Options > Online Options in DL2: set Game Type = Public and disable any filters/search restrictions. eXputer.com
Xbox One / Series X|S
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Settings → General → Network settings → Test network connection.
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If NAT type is “Strict”, enable UPnP or open ports via your router.
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Uninstall and reinstall the game if the connection error persists after other fixes.
Nintendo Switch
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Since WiFi on Switch is less robust than wired connections, ensure a stable network and try connecting during non-peak times.
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Check that your Nintendo Online subscription is active and that the game’s servers are reachable.
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Some players on Switch report matchmaking/connectivity issues due to peer-to-peer sessions rather than dedicated servers. Reddit
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4. Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
Use this as a quick reference when you encounter “Not Connecting to Server” error:
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✅ Are game servers online (check Techland / Twitter)?
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✅ Have you restarted your device + router/modem?
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✅ Is your internet connection stable and sufficient?
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✅ Is the game fully patched and your system updated?
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✅ Have you verified game files (PC) or re-installed (console)?
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✅ Are firewall/antivirus or router settings blocking the game?
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✅ Is your NAT type “Open” or at least “Moderate”, not “Strict”?
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✅ For co-op: have you unlocked it (past required quest) and set Online Options to Public?
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✅ Are you using a VPN/proxy that might interfere?
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✅ For PC: Have you flushed DNS/reset network stack if needed?
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✅ If all else fails: uninstall and reinstall the game, then test again.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: The error says “Server not reachable” when I try to join co-op with my friend. What should I check?
A1: First check server status (online/offline). Then ensure both you and your friend have compatible versions of the game (patched). Make sure both have unlocked co-op (past prologue) and have Online Options set to Public. Check that NAT types are not preventing matchmaking (Strict NAT may block join). Also ensure neither is using a VPN that may block peer connections. Dying Light 2+1
Q2: I keep getting “Network Disconnected” even though my internet is fine.
A2: This may be due to the game client losing connection to the master server mid-session. Try exiting game, reboot your console/PC and router, then re-launch. On PC you can flush DNS and reset network stack. Also check for background apps using excessive bandwidth or interfering with network. Xbox & Play Games+1
Q3: Does using a VPN help or hurt with DL2 server connection?
A3: It’s a double-edged sword. While some users use VPNs to bypass routing issues, many have reported that VPNs introduce extra latency, hops, or block peer-to-peer connections required by the game. For connectivity errors, disable the VPN and test without it. Howtoedge+1
Q4: My NAT type is “Strict” on Xbox/PS — does that matter?
A4: Yes. A Strict NAT significantly hinders multiplayer connectivity and ability to join/create sessions. On your router, enable UPnP, or open the game’s required ports, or set your console to a DMZ. After adjusting, reboot the router and console and check NAT type again.
Q5: I’m on PC and have mods installed — could they cause the error?
A5: Definitely. Mods may interfere with the game’s online services or cause file mismatches. Remove/uninstall all mods, verify game files and test without mods. If the connection then works, the mods were likely the culprit.
Q6: Are there any DL2 server restrictions by region I should know about?
A6: While Techland hasn’t publicly specified region-blocks, some reports suggest matchmaking may be easier when connecting to servers closer to your region for latency reasons. There’s also the unlock requirement: until you complete the prologue, online/co-op may be restricted. Dying Light 2
Q7: Can the console cache cause this issue?
A7: Yes — corrupted caches or data in system memory can prevent proper connections. On consoles, perform a full power-off, unplug, hold power button to clear cache, then boot again. On PS5 you may rebuild database.
Q8: I tried everything and still can’t connect — what now?
A8: As a last resort:
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On PC uninstall the game (and delete any leftover folders/mods), then reinstall fresh.
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On console uninstall and reinstall.
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If still failing, collect error details (platform, version, time of day, what you did before error) and submit a support ticket to Techland. They may have ongoing issues they’re working to fix. Reddit
Q9: Why does the game say “Network: Disconnected” at the bottom but other games work fine?
A9: Because DL2 uses specific online service APIs (authentication with Techland, peer-to-peer/co-op matchmaking) beyond just having internet access. If those services are blocked (by firewall, ISP, VPN, mod files), you’ll appear “offline” to the game even if web browsing works. Use the checklist to isolate the issue.
Q10: Will uninstalling my save game help?
A10: Usually not necessary. The connectivity error tends to stem from network/connection layer rather than save data. However, if you suspect your save file is corrupted, you can test with a fresh save (create a new game) and see if you can connect online from that. If yes, then save file could play a part. But proceed cautiously (backup your save).
6. Final Thoughts
Experiencing “Not Connecting to Server” errors in Dying Light 2 can be frustrating — especially when you’re only steps away from co-op or exploring with friends.
The good news is that most cases are fixable without waiting for a major patch. By following the steps above — checking server status, verifying your connection, updating game & system, checking firewall/router/NAT settings, and reinstalling as necessary — you’ll likely regain connectivity.
If after all of this you still face issues, then it’s quite possibly a server-side or version-specific bug that only the developers can fully resolve. In that case, do submit a detailed ticket to Techland support and keep an eye on their communications for server-status updates.